The modelling section is a comprehensive guide to building every component of the ship from the creation of a template box utilising orthographic views of the model to use as a guide through to modelling with Editable Poly tools and Subdivision surfaces covering the main hull as well as vents, windows, engine and gun parts. It covers numerous tools and modifiers such as Bevel, Inset, Lathe and Extrude as well as detailing the linking of objects in a heirarchy and the animation of various gun components and also deals with assigning smothing groups to sub-object selections in order to create panelling across the ship.

Next, you will deal with various mapping and unwrapping techniques including Planar and Cylindrical mapping and explains the process of mapping the model in sections and then stitching the elements together using the Unwrap UVW modifier. It explains the methods involved in creating an efficient template ready for the Texturing stage and shows how a wireframe guide can be exported into Photoshop in preperation for this. You will learn how to use a guide template to check the integrity of mapping co-ordinates and discover the methods behind unwrapping 3D components into logical 2D images.

As well as showing how materials are applied in Max using the Material Editor this section deals in depth with a comprehensive overview of Photoshop techniques that show practical tips on texturing 3D models. It covers numerous methods that amongst others detail the creation of Colour / Diffuse maps, Specular maps, Bump and Reflection maps and shows how dirt maps can be used to age a model. Vents, panels and engine parts are all covered and we show how all the various textures can be hand painted from scratch and by using a Blend material and Mask we explain how wear and tear can be used to transform a new looking ship into a battle hardened veteran.

Modelling Section
Creating a template box
Editable Poly Tools -
• Edge Tools
• Ring
• Loop
• Connect
• Chamfer
Polygon Tools
• Bevel
• Inset
• Hinge from Edge
Border Tools
• Bridge
Editable Splines
Assigning Smoothing Groups
Modifiers
• Lathe
• Extrude
• Bend
Linking objects in a heirarchy
Animating gun components
Mapping & Unwrapping Section
Planar and Cylindrical Mapping
Unwrapping a Mesh
Exporting a template

Texturing Section
Using the Material Editor
Applying a material
Learn how to make:
• Colour Map
• Specular Map
• Bump Map
• Reflection Map
Using a Blend Material with a Mask

Minimum System Requirements (PC)
DVD Rom Drive : 1GHz Processor : 128Mb RAM : Monitor Resolution 1024x768

Minimum System Requirements (MAC)
DVD Rom Drive : 400Mb G3 Processor : 128Mb RAM : Monitor Resolution 1024x768